The Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department (TCVFD) celebrates its 38th annual awards banquet on Saturday, at 6:30 p.m. at the Chattanooga Trade and Convention Center, to recognize the service, contributions and achievements of its members.
Many volunteers will be given awards for longevity and responses to alarms. Of note, Chief Duane Pitts will be honored for his 50 years of service, which began in 1966 as a young college student when he joined the department.
He excelled in the fire service, was recognized for his leadership abilities and was appointed chief by the Board of Directors in 1975. He has demonstrated a commitment to improving public safety and excellence in the Fire, Rescue and Emergency Medical Service. He provided leadership in rebuilding the fire department from near bankruptcy in 1975 to their current organization of over 100 members responding in fire and rescue apparatus from five stations in Southeast Hamilton County.
TCVFD will recognize its chiefs, officers, and volunteers’ commitment that culminated in the recent upgrade to ISO class 3 rating in their area. This rating helps to decrease insurance premiums, particularly for businesses in the area. It will also celebrate the opening of the district 3 (Apison) station, and applaud the efforts, donations, and commitment of their business, community, and political leaders that made this possible.